94 The Coaching Toolkit for Child Welfare Practice
seeking substance abuse treatment. They continue to adapt and
refine the model, and have applied and tested the fundamental
principles and methodologies of MI in a variety of settings.
MI focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence and centers
on motivational processes within the individual that facilitate
change. The method differs from more “coercive” or externally
driven methods for motivating change as it does not impose change
(which may be inconsistent with the person's own values, beliefs or
wishes), but rather supports change in a manner congruent with the
person's own values and concerns (Miller & Rollnick, 2009).
Principles of motivational interviewing
A central concept of MI is the identification, examination, and
resolution of ambivalence about changing behavior. Ambivalence —
feeling two ways about behavioral change — is a natural part of the
change process. The coach is attuned to client ambivalence and
“readiness for change” and thoughtfully uses techniques and
strategies responsive to the learner.